Friday, February 19, 2010

The Godfather by Mario Puzo

SummaryThe Godfather is the story of organized crime in the 1940's which revolves around the Corleone family. Don Vito Corleone is the head of a New York Mafia "family". Problems arise when a gangster supported by another Mafia family, Solozzo, announces his intentions to start selling drugs all over New York. Don Vito hates the idea of drugs as he is quite happy with his hotel and gambling business. Don is shot by Solozzo's men. Solozzo then kidnaps one of Don's advisors, Tom Hagen and tries to make him force Don's eldest son, Sonny to agree to sell drugs, but the plan goes wrong when Sollozzo finds out that Don Corleone is still alive.

Holy moly! What could i say? I am so in love with Don Corleone!!!It's awkward for me to read crime novel beside Agatha Christie's, i am not so into it. Even, if it tells about mafia life. Never imagine before, i will fall into its character.

Puzo simply tells about Don Corleone's life, with his complete family. First things I notice, that Puzo share the plots simply. Really simple. You wouldn't face complicated plot,with twisted characters and problems, or think hard to understand the stories, you'll be drowned by yourself. I am so interested with every rule in this mafia thing, how they keep friendship and brotherhood, and pay it with blood, if someone betray them. And Don himself, is generous man. He helps everyone, rich or poor, well-known or ordinary. He doesn't ask payment, only their friendship, and help if he needs it.

Well, in the middle of the book, you'll realize that center of main plot is Michael, Don's last son, his destiny and choice in life. From beginning, Michael reject to follow Family's business, refuse to be Don's employee. But, however Michael takes the plot, I am still in love with Don Corleone. This old man has a style. I know, it's so subjective, but beside Don, you'll find many interesting characters, with their own amazing life, and Puzo narrate them completely. But, once again, simply. Maybe, you, who used to read chick lit, or simple flick, will feel lazy, or boring to face this story, I guarantee you won't. It's beautiful story,told with Sicilian style, and has its special taste. It's how mafioso works! I can't wait to look for the movies! :)

PS. There are many memorable quotes in this precious book, and here is one that i love.Don Corleone: "I'm a superstitious man, and if some unlucky accident should befall Michael - if he is to be shot in the head by a police officer, or be found hung dead in a jail cell... or if he should be struck by a bolt of lightning - then I'm going to blame some of the people in this room; and then I do not forgive. But with said, I pledge - on the souls of my grandchildren - that I will not be the one to break the peace that we have made today. "

PPS. I won't be tired to remind you, that you still have time to join my giveaway!